Know your risk, recognize the signs, and learn how to screen.
In the late 1990s, colorectal cancer was the fourth leading cause of cancer death for men and women in the United States under age 50. Today, it is the leading cause of cancer death for men under 50 and second for women.
Worldwide, colorectal cancer is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer and the second leading cause of cancer death, claiming more than 900,000 lives every year. More than 150,000 new cases of colorectal cancer will be diagnosed this year in the United States alone, while roughly 53,000 will succumb to the disease.
But while doctors have noted a gradual decline in colorectal cancer rates in the older population, studies have uncovered a steep and alarming rise in colorectal cancer in younger populations, including those under 40.
"What we're seeing is quite alarming," says surgical oncologist Dr. Kenneth Meredith, Medical Director of the Gastroenterology Cancer Specialty Program at Sarasota Memorial, where he's even seen patients in their 20s. "There is definitely a significant increase in patients under the age of 40 being diagnosed with colon or rectal cancer," he says. "It's in the data."
The most alarming part?
“Oftentimes,” Dr. Meredith says, “we don’t even see these patients until the cancer has already progressed to later stages.”
At that point, it’s often too late.
But while the cause of the increase in colorectal cancer among younger populations remains unclear, says Dr. Meredith, the need to act is not.
"We need heightened awareness of this issue," he says. "That's where we need to be proactive and diligent."
Recognize the Signs of Early-Onset Colorectal Cancer
Heightened awareness means listening to your body when it tells you something is off. Here are some important symptoms of colorectal cancer to look out for-no matter your age-and that you should never ignore.
- Rectal Bleeding
- Changes in Bowel Habits (diarrhea or constipation)
- Abdominal Pain or Discomfort
- Unexplained Weight Loss
- Unexplained Fatigue
In the later stages of colorectal cancer, symptoms may grow to include bowel obstruction, pain upon defecation, and ribbon-like stool.
If you or someone you know is experiencing any of these symptoms, no matter how mild, contact your healthcare provider or reach out to the gastrointestinal cancer experts at Sarasota Memorial’s Brian D. Jellison Cancer Institute.
Mythbusting with Dr. Meredith
When it comes to recognizing the signs of early-onset colorectal cancer, two myths continually stand in the way.
Myth #1: “Dark blood in the stool is a problem but bright red blood is OK.”
FALSE. Any blood in the stool is reason for investigation.
Myth #2: “Blood in my stool is bad but a little blood on the toilet paper is OK.”
FALSE. Both blood in the stool and blood on the toilet paper
are cause for concern.
"I reinforce this to everyone," says Dr. Meredith. "All rectal bleeding has to be taken seriously. Even if the patient has a history of hemorrhoids or something else that could cause rectal bleeding, it should be investigated."
Lower Your Risk of Colorectal Cancer
While genetic factors are impossible to control, there are lifestyle changes that anyone can make to lower their risk of developing colorectal cancer.
- Eat Right: A diet high in fat and processed sugars increases risk of cancer, as does a diet low in fiber. So remember your fruits and veggies, and practice moderation with alcohol, red meat, and processed sugars.
- Stay Active: Even as little as 30 minutes of walking a day can greatly decrease not only risk of developing cancer, but risk of recurrence and risk of complications during surgery. And it's cumulative. A few 10-minute walks really start to add up.
- Quit Smoking: Cigarettes increase your risk of developing just about every type of cancer, including colorectal. If you are a smoker, quitting could be the single most impactful decision for your health.
Screen for Colorectal Cancer
Colorectal cancer is quite treatable, if discovered early. This is why recommended routine screening is so important.
For those of average risk, routine colonoscopies every 10 years should begin at age 45. It takes 15-20 minutes and remains the gold standard for the most accurate diagnosis.
For those with a history of polyps or inflammatory bowel diseases, such as Crohn’s disease, your healthcare provider may recommend more frequent colonoscopies beginning at an earlier age.
For those with a documented family history of colorectal cancer, screening should begin 10 years before the age of the family member's diagnosis. So if a relative developed colorectal cancer at age 40, their family members will want to start testing at 30.
To learn more about screening at Sarasota Memorial or to schedule your screening at one of our eight outpatient locations, click here.
For more information on screening guidelines from the American Cancer Society, click here.
More Resources
Colonoscopies at 45: Early Detection Makes the Difference
Could Your Diet Be Linked to Cancer?
Do You Know Your Risk? Genetic Testing & Counseling for Hereditary Cancers
Gastrointestinal Cancer Care at Sarasota Memorial
G.I. Cancer Screening & Diagnostics at Sarasota Memorial
American Cancer Society Guidelines for Colorectal Cancer Screening
Written by Sarasota Memorial copywriter Philip Lederer, MA, who crafts a variety of external communications for the healthcare system. SMH's in-house wordsmith, Lederer earned his Master's degree in Public Administration and Political Philosophy from Morehead State University, KY.